Robin Dobbins, a pediatric oncology research nurse at the Georgia Cancer Center at Augusta University, plays a crucial role in advancing immunotherapy treatments for children with relapsed brain tumors. Working alongside Dr. Ted Johnson, an Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF)-funded researcher, Dobbins manages multiple clinical trials, providing both scientific oversight and compassionate care to young patients and their families.
Comprehensive Trial Management
Dobbins' responsibilities encompass ensuring strict adherence to trial protocols, meticulously managing the timing of MRIs and other essential tests, guaranteeing the accurate dispensing of medications, and closely monitoring patients for any adverse side effects. Her diligent reporting is vital for maintaining the integrity of the research. "There aren’t a lot of options for kids with relapsed brain tumors," Dobbins notes, highlighting the urgent need for innovative treatments.
Compassionate Family Support
Beyond her technical duties, Dobbins is known for her exceptional compassion and dedication to the families she serves. Jessica Tobin, whose daughter Brynn participated in a trial for ependymoma, recalls Dobbins' ability to connect with Brynn, making her time at the clinic more enjoyable. Dobbins emphasizes the importance of being a person to the families, offering support through both good and bad days. She actively provides families with ideas for activities outside the hospital and ensures they have direct access to the trial team via dedicated cell phones.
Overcoming Logistical Challenges
Recognizing the challenges faced by families traveling to Augusta, Georgia, for treatment, Dobbins and her team leverage the ALSF Travel For Care program. This initiative provides crucial travel support, enabling families to access potentially life-saving therapies. "ALSF has been a Godsend to our program," Dobbins states, emphasizing the foundation's responsiveness and support.
Advancing Immunotherapy
Dr. Johnson's research focuses on an immunotherapy drug called Indoximod, used in conjunction with chemotherapy. The Phase 1 trial, which initially enrolled 84 children, has been completed, and the research is now in Phase 2. Dobbins expresses optimism about the potential of the trial to progress to Phase 3, bringing the treatment closer to becoming widely available for children with brain tumors. The "Cancer Cure Crusaders," the team involved in the immunotherapy program, has raised close to $200,000 for childhood cancer research since 2017 through ALSF’s Million Mile campaign.
